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Transforming the understanding
and treatment of mental illnesses.

Depression Research, Testing an Investigational Drug

Join a Research Study: Enrolling nationally from around the country

To contact the study team: email (moodresearch@mail.nih.gov) or call 1-877-646-3644 (1-877-MIND-NIH) [TTY: 711].

Learn more about our current studies.

Find out if you are eligible by filling out this survey 

This inpatient study is testing the effectiveness of an investigational new drug, HNK, which comes from ketamine. If you have been treated for depression and still feel depressed, you may be eligible to participate.

This study includes:

  • Up to 12- to 14-weeks inpatient, with some parts that may be completed as an outpatient
  • IV (intravenous) medication
  • Psychological and cognitive testing
  • Brain scans (MEG and MRI/MRS)
  • After completing the study, participants receive short-term follow-up care at the NIH while transitioning back to a provider

You may be eligible if you are:

  • Currently depressed even after trying an antidepressant
  • Between 18-70 years old
  • Otherwise, healthy

There is no cost to participate, health insurance is not needed. Compensation up to $4,660 is provided. The study takes place at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. We will help make travel arrangements and we pay for travel costs (arrangements vary by distance and circumstance). 

Learn more about our current studies.

Find out if you are eligible by filling out this survey 

To contact the study team: email (moodresearch@mail.nih.gov) or call 1-877-646-3644 (1-877-MIND-NIH) [TTY: 711].

Study Identifiers

  • NIMH Protocol Number: 001602
  • ClinicalTrials.gov Study Number: 06511908 

Investigator(s): Carlos Zarate Jr, M.D.